The Moeraki Boulders are the huge and phenomenally spherical boulders like giant cannon balls found on Koekohe Beach on the coast of New Zealand. They are specially protected as part of a scientific reserve to ensure their lasting beauty and scientific interest. They range in size from about 0.5 to 1 metres (1.6 to 3.3 ft) in diameter, to well over 2 metres (7 ft).
Much folk lore surrounds the formation of these articles – such as the story about them being the eggs of unborn sea-dragons – but scientific study has determined that they formed in the surrounding cliffs out of clay and mudstone, and millennia of sea-erosion have given them their smooth, round shape.
If you are a green traveller who wants a guided tour of the boulders and surrounding areas, then take a look at MCTours.com, where you will jump on a coach for a good look around. The drive takes you along the scenic Pacific Ocean shoreline, to Koekohe Beach to see the boulders, which are a wonder of nature.
Enjoy lunch (included in the tour cost) at the Boulder Caf? overlooking the Pacific Ocean, before heading back to Dunedin to see some of the many historic and beautiful buildings, including the famous Railway Station, one of New Zealand’s most photographed buildings, as well as visiting Baldwin Street, the steepest street in the world.
Whilst there, the ecotourist who is also a nature lover will not want to miss the exquisite nature tours on offer from elmwildlifetours.co.nz. As well as taking in the magnificent boulders, this company allows you to build your own tour itinerary – whether you’re staying for one day or one week – to take a chance to see Blue Penguins, Sea Lions and Albatross going about their daily business in the wild. Such a place with such magnificent wildlife has so much to offer for ecotourism, and it is a place not to be missed.